Parkhead revisited: Reds fans thank Celtic

Celtic FC's backing of all those affected by Hillsborough has been unyielding in the 25 years since the disaster and an unbreakable bond has been forged between the two clubs.

On Saturday, the latest show of unity unfolded on the Celtic Park pitch as families and supporters journeyed north to say a special 'thank-you' to the Celtic faithful.

At half-time during the Scottish champions' 5-2 victory over Aberdeen, the travelling party joined Hoops fans in a lap of honour to highlight the continued friendship between the two teams.

A giant banner, which originally appeared on the Kop in 2007, bearing the words 'Thank you Celtic fans - We've never walked alone' was unfurled by representatives of the Hillsborough Justice Campaign.

The visit evoked memories of almost exactly 25 years ago when, in the aftermath of the tragedy, more than 60,000 supporters attended Celtic Park on April 30, 1989 for a friendly between Liverpool and Celtic.

It was the Reds' first match since Hillsborough and as the teams took to the field, the entire ground sang an emotional version of 'You'll Never Walk Alone'.

What has become known as the 'memorial match' not only rallied the spirits of the players but provided a stunning show of solidarity with the Reds fans and bereaved families.

In 2007, Celtic fans presented their own banner to the Kop, highlighting their continued dedication to the cause and on Saturday, that same flag was carried onto the Parkhead pitch alongside Liverpool's message of thanks as the two clubs stood side-by-side once again.

"It was a fantastic occasion," said Debi McMillan, who carried the Liverpool banner on the day, accompanied by Stephen Wright, Peter Carney, Barry Devonside, Chris Tyrrell and Paul McMillan.

"The whole city took us in once again. It was just incredible. Every single person in the ground was behind us. They were giving us eye contact and it was meaningful. I think for us to thank them meant an awful lot to the Celtic fans and it was just our way of giving something back."

Paul Cuddihy, from Celtic View, the official magazine of Celtic Football Club, said: "Celtic fans have worked very closely with Liverpool supporters over the last 25 years.

"Saturday was an emotional day for everybody. I spoke to a few Celtic fans who were there and they found it to be a very poignant moment when the banners came out.

"There's always been strong links between the clubs and, from a Celtic point of view, there's always been that absolute support for Liverpool and the families of the 96. That's been unwavering from day one.

"From 1989, Celtic have always been behind the campaign and I think it's still as emotional now as it was 25 years ago. When Celtic fans saw how much their support has been valued, that was the reason people were so steadfast in their applause on the day."